The red lip is an easy yet classic look that anyone can pull off. But is it really possible to find the perfect red lip, minus the chapping? We say yes! ICYDK, Benefit’s new California Kissin’ Color Balms (P1,390) hydrate and nourish with hyaluronic acid, wild mango butter, and loofah seed oil, plus they come in 12 highly pigmented shades, including five gorgeous reds! Try these tips to find your best shade:
The key to picking the perfect red lip is understanding the undertones of both your skin and the lippie’s shade, then figuring out how they work together. Remember: Not all reds are made equal, but there’s surely a shade of red for everyone.
To identify your skin’s undertones, check out your wrists. If your veins appear more blue or purple, you have cool undertones. If your veins look more green, you’re considered warm. Can’t tell easily? If the color of your veins blends too well into your skin, then you’re likely to have neutral undertones.
Another trick would be to turn to your collection of accessories. If you prefer how yellow gold looks against your skin, then your undertones are most likely warm. Think rose gold, silver, or white jewelry flatters you the most? Then you’ve got cool undertones. Someone with neutral undertones is blessed enough to look good with all metals.
Still unsure? Just think back to your last (pre-quarantine) beach trip! After sun exposure, do you tend to tan or burn? If your skin bronzes easily, then you’ve likely got warm undertones, while those prone to sunburn often have cooler undertones.
While you can’t really go wrong with any of the California Kissin’ shades, you now have two choices depending on the look you’re after. If you want a red lip that really pops, then choose a contrasting red shade with undertones that are the opposite of your skin’s undertones. Want a red lip that looks understatedly chic? Then go for a red that has the same undertones as your skin.
The red you choose can also complement the rest of your makeup. Choose a warmer shade like Spiced Red or Wine, then try pairing it with your favorite bronzer (like Benefit’s Hoola!) and watch your entire face instantly warm up! This is perfect if you’re missing your usual summer tan, especially after months spent indoors.
A cool-toned red like Pomegranate or Ruby can have a teeth-whitening effect and bring out your brightest smile. Try swiping on these shades for a fun and flirty pop of color that’s sure to make a bold statement.
Ruby, a cool Color Balm on warm undertone
Spiced Red, a warm Color Balm shade on cool undertone
Pomegranate, a cool Color Balm shade on warm undertone
Wine, a warm Color Balm shade on neutral undertone
Cherry, warm Color Balm on warm undertone
Want to hop aboard the red lip train, but still feel a bit intimidated? Take baby steps! Here are some tips you can try instead of going in straight from the bullet.
First, try applying California Kissin’ over the entire lip area, then carefully blot lips onto some tissue to get left with the prettiest rose-hued stain. The moisturizing ingredients will make sure no product gets caught on any dry patches or lines on the lips. This look is great for a more wearable everyday red lip.
You could also apply the Color Balm onto just the center of your lips before lightly dabbing the color outwards for an easy ombre pout! To take it a step further, apply a nude shade or concealer on the perimeter of your lips for more contrast. Just like your fave K-drama stars, you’ll be sure to have a youthful and fresh popsicle-stained pout to go with your glass skin.
If you’re feeling more casual, take some tips from the French and blur out your lips’ edges. No need to use a lip liner or be careful while you sip your cup of coffee. The blurred out lip is low-maintenance but still packs a punch. It’s the ultimate “cool girl” look. Use a cotton tip or small eyeshadow brush to blend out the edges. You’ll be left with a beautifully hazy and fuller-looking pout. Pair it with your favorite liner and loads of mascara, and you’re good to go!
Benefit Cosmetics California Kissin’ Color Balms are available online on Lazada, Zalora, and BeautyMNL, and will be arriving at Benefit Cosmetics stores on July 6. Get yours from Greenbelt 5, Trinoma, Alabang Town Center, Robinson’s Magnolia, Ayala Manila Bay, SM Megamall, SM Mall of Asia, SM Aura, and SM Makati. Learn more by following Benefit Cosmetics on Facebook.